QuestionsQuestions (PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 996)
PD 996 provides for compulsory basic immunization for infants and children below eight (8) years of age to protect them against death, disease, and disability.
Infants and children below eight years of age are covered; basic immunization against certain diseases is compulsory for them.
The decree lists: (a) BCG vaccination against tuberculosis; (b) inoculation against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis; (c) oral poliomyelitis immunization; (d) protection against measles; and (e) immunization against rubella.
Yes. It allows “such other basic immunization services” for children below eight that the Council for the Welfare of Children may recommend to the Secretary of Health.
The Department of Health (DOH) must provide free basic immunization services, subject to rules and regulations on immunization ages, schedules, procedures, and available resources.
They must ensure the child is presented for basic immunization services at the place and time specified by the DOH.
The head of an institution where children are educated, treated, cared for, or committed by law must provide basic immunization services; arrangements may be made with the DOH for free immunization services.
All schools—public and private—must provide basic immunization services to all pre-school and primary school entrants who have not received such immunization, subject to DOH rules and regulations.
No. PD 996 applies to both public and private schools, which must provide immunization services to eligible entrants.
Violations are punishable by imprisonment not exceeding one (1) month or a fine not exceeding two hundred (PHP 200) pesos, or both, at the discretion of the court—unless a higher penalty is provided for in the Revised Penal Code or special laws.
Yes. It states that if a higher penalty is provided for in the Revised Penal Code or special laws, that higher penalty applies.
It contains a repealing clause: all laws or parts of laws inconsistent with PD 996 are repealed or modified accordingly.
If any provision is held invalid, the other provisions not affected by the invalidity continue to operate.
It takes effect upon its approval.
It was part of the statement of reasons (whereas clauses) justifying the mandate—immunization is presented as a proven universal preventive measure against listed diseases.
The Secretary of Health issues rules and regulations covering immunization ages, schedules, procedures, and available resources.
It may recommend to the Secretary of Health additional basic immunization services for infants and children below eight years of age.